Wood Finishes: A Guide to the Different Options for Protecting and Enhancing Wood Surfaces

Wood finishes are used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood surfaces. They can be applied to raw wood to protect it from moisture, stains, and other damage, or they can be applied to existing finishes to renew or refresh the appearance of the wood.

There are many different types of wood finishes available, and they vary in terms of their properties, application, and durability. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different options for wood finishes and their key features.

1. Oil finishes

Oil finishes are natural finishes that are made from plant oils, such as linseed oil, tung oil, and mineral oil. They are applied to wood surfaces by rubbing or brushing, and they penetrate the wood to provide a protective barrier.

Oil finishes are easy to apply and maintain, and they enhance the natural color and grain of the wood. They are not as durable as some other finishes, however, and they may require frequent reapplication to maintain their protective qualities.

2. Varnishes

Varnishes are clear, glossy finishes that are made from resin dissolved in a solvent. They are applied to wood surfaces by brushing, rolling, or spraying, and they form a hard, protective film on the surface of the wood.

Varnishes are available in a range of sheens, from matte to high gloss, and they are resistant to moisture and stains. They are more durable than oil finishes, but they may yellow over time and may require sanding and refinishing to maintain their appearance.

3. Shellac

Shellac is a natural finish made from the resin of the lac bug, which is native to India and Thailand. It is dissolved in alcohol to create a liquid finish that is applied to wood surfaces by brushing or spraying. Shellac dries quickly and forms a hard, protective film on the surface of the wood.

It is available in a range of colors, from clear to amber, and it enhances the natural color and grain of the wood. Shellac is relatively easy to apply and maintain, but it is not as durable as some other finishes and may require frequent reapplication.

4. Stains

Stains are pigmented finishes that are used to change the color of wood or to enhance the natural color and grain of the wood. They are applied to wood surfaces by brushing or spraying, and they penetrate the wood to add color.

Stains are available in a range of colors, from light to dark, and they are often used in conjunction with other finishes, such as varnishes or polyurethane, to provide additional protection. Stains are relatively easy to apply and maintain, but they may fade or discolor over time and may require sanding and refinishing to maintain their appearance.

5. Polyurethane

Polyurethane is a synthetic finish that is made from a polymer of urethane. It is available in both oil-based and water-based formulations, and it is applied to wood surfaces by brushing or spraying. Polyurethane forms a hard, protective film on the surface of the wood and is resistant to moisture, stains, and scratches.

It is available in a range of sheens, from matte to high gloss, and it is durable and long-lasting. Polyurethane is more difficult to apply and maintain than some other finishes, however, and it may yellow or crack over time. It also has a strong smell when it is applied and may require ventilation during application.

6. Wax

Wax is a natural finish made from plant oils, such as beeswax, carnauba wax, and paraffin wax. It is applied to wood surfaces by rubbing or brushing, and it forms a protective, glossy film on the surface of the wood.

Wax is easy to apply and maintain, and it enhances the natural color and grain of the wood. It is not as durable as some other finishes, however, and it may require frequent reapplication to maintain its protective qualities.

Wood finishes are used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood surfaces. They can be applied to raw wood to protect it from moisture, stains, and other damage, or they can be applied to existing finishes to renew or refresh the appearance of the wood.

There are many different types of wood finishes available, each with its own unique properties, application, and durability. Understanding the different options can help you choose the right finish for your wood surfaces.